Ozempic and Hair Loss: A Plastic Surgeon’s Take on the Latest Study
A new study out of the University of British Columbia has linked semaglutide-based medications — such as **Ozempic** and **Wegovy** — to an increased risk of hair loss. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I work with many patients who use these medications as part of their weight loss journey. Naturally, any new information like this deserves careful attention and context.
Let’s break down what this research means — and what you should know if you’re taking Ozempic and noticing changes to your hair.
What the Study Found
According to the study, individuals taking semaglutide were **50% more likely** to experience hair loss compared to those using another weight loss drug, **bupropion-naltrexone**. Notably, women appeared to be at even higher risk — with twice the likelihood of hair loss compared to men.
It’s important to note that the study hasn’t yet been peer-reviewed, and its data was based on insurance billing codes, not clinical evaluations or lab-confirmed diagnoses. That means the results should be interpreted with some caution.
Is It Ozempic — or Is It the Weight Loss?
While the link between Ozempic and hair loss may sound alarming, the **most likely explanation is not the drug itself — but the rapid weight loss it causes**.
Hair loss due to significant weight loss is a well-documented phenomenon. It’s called **telogen effluvium** — a condition where stress to the body pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, causing increased shedding a few months after the initial trigger.
This can happen with:
– Crash diets
– Major surgeries
– Postpartum changes
– And yes, **rapid medical weight loss**
In clinical trials for Wegovy, **only 2.5% of patients** reported hair loss. That’s a relatively small number when considering the millions of users.
How to Protect Your Hair While Losing Weight
If you’re noticing hair thinning while taking Ozempic or another GLP-1 medication, the good news is: **this type of hair loss is often temporary.** With the right support, most people experience regrowth within 3–6 months.
Here’s what I recommend to my patients:
- Focus on Protein: Hair is made primarily of keratin, a protein. Inadequate protein intake is one of the top causes of shedding during weight loss.
- Stay Nutritionally Balanced: Deficiencies in **iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D** are common culprits in hair thinning. Bloodwork can help identify what you’re missing.
- Manage Stress: Emotional and physical stress compound the issue. Prioritize sleep, hydration, and activities that support nervous system health.
- Consider Topical Treatments: FDA-approved medications like **minoxidil** (Rogaine) may help stimulate regrowth while the underlying stressor resolves.
- Talk to Your Provider: Don’t stop your medication without consulting your physician — especially if it’s helping with weight loss and metabolic health. Instead, bring up your concerns and explore solutions together.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss is emotionally difficult, but **it’s not uncommon** during rapid weight changes — and it’s rarely permanent. While the headlines may be grabbing attention, the bigger picture is more nuanced.
Medications like Ozempic can be life-changing, especially for patients struggling with obesity-related health risks. If you’re experiencing hair shedding, know that you’re not alone — and there are tools to help.
As always, personalized care matters. If you have questions about changes in your appearance related to medication, weight loss, or surgical procedures, I invite you to schedule a consultation. We’re here to support every step of your transformation — inside and out.
